Joshua 7:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 7:20
20 And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done:
Chapter Context
Joshua 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, discipleship, covenant. Written during the conquest of Canaan (c. 1406-1375 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Canaan was fragmented into city-states with various tribal alliances and religious practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Joshua and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Joshua 7:20
20 And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done:
Analysis
Achan's confession begins: 'Indeed I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel.' The Hebrew אָמְנָם (omnnam—indeed, truly) expresses acknowledgment without excuse. Achan admits the sin, identifies it correctly as against God (not merely against Israel or Joshua), and uses the covenant name 'LORD God of Israel.' His confession is theologically accurate—all sin is ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4). The phrase 'thus and thus have I done' prepares to detail the specifics. Genuine confession requires particularity—naming what was done, not vague admission of 'mistakes.' Achan's willingness to confess publicly shows some degree of conscience or resignation. Yet the confession comes only after divine exposure, not from voluntary repentance. This raises questions about motives—is it genuine contrition or pragmatic admission when caught? The text doesn't indicate pleading for mercy or expressions of remorse, only factual acknowledgment.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern confessions often preceded execution, serving both religious and legal purposes. The confession validated the justice system, acknowledged the deity's righteousness, and theoretically allowed the guilty party to make peace with their god before death. Achan's public confession before all Israel served to educate the community and validate God's judgment. His use of the full title 'LORD God of Israel' showed orthodox theological understanding—he knew whom he'd sinned against. The contrast is tragic: Achan confessed correct doctrine while violating it through greed. This pattern repeats throughout history—orthodoxy without obedience, profession without practice. James 2:19 later observes: 'the devils also believe, and tremble.' Achan's confession came too late for reprieve, illustrating that while confession is always right, consequences may remain. Church discipline literature notes this tension—restoration of relationship with God while temporal consequences continue.
Reflection
- What is the difference between confession that comes from conviction versus confession that comes from being caught?
- How does Achan's accurate theology combined with disobedient behavior speak to your own inconsistencies?
- What does it mean that all sin is 'against the LORD,' not merely against rules or people?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Sin: Psalms 38:18